Open a book this minute and start reading. Don’t move until you’ve reached page fifty. Until you’ve buried your thoughts in print. Cover yourself with words. Wash yourself away. Dissolve. Carol Shields Republic of Love

Austin Clarke's More (2008)

Austin Clarke’s More Thomas Allen, 2008

I can’t help it: when I see a stack of new books at the library, I am compelled to, at the very least, ogle them. Usually I pick one up. Often I pet one (even if it’s just a shinier version of a favourite that I have at home). [...]